Fans encouraged to arrive early for USA-Mexico World Cup Qualifier at Crew Stadium

CHICAGO (Sept. 7, 2013) - With a sold-out crowd on hand and a record number of organized supporters, U.S. Soccer encourages all fans attending the U.S. Men’s National Team game against Mexico on Tuesday, Sept. 10, presented by AT&T, to arrive at Columbus Crew Stadium well in advance of the 8 p.m. ET start time to ensure entrance to the stadium prior to kickoff.

Parking lots open at 11 a.m. ET and U.S. Soccer’s Fan Fest opens at 2 p.m. ET in the stadium parking lot. The Fan Fest includes activation from U.S. Soccer sponsors and partners including sweepstakes, interactive booths, giveaways and appearances from former players.

Gates to the stadium open for fans at 6 p.m. ET.

In order to expedite entrance into the stadium, fans are encouraged to familiarize themselves with Crew Stadium Safety and Security Policies, including the list of prohibited items. Fans are also asked to follow the “if you see something, say something” protocol for the safety of everyone attending the match.

More than 24,000 fans will be out in full force, requiring extra security for the highly anticipated match and ingress to the stadium, including parking lots, will take longer than it does for regular-season Columbus Crew games.

For fans in the Columbus area before the match, U.S. Soccer's Fan Headquarters is currently underway at Easton Town Center. Activities include daily trivia contests and giveaways, and the Frankie Hejduk Challenge Cup Futsal Event on Sunday.

The lead-up festivities will culminate with a Happy Hour and Pep Rally hosted by U.S. Soccer on Sept. 9 at the Bluestone in downtown Columbus. The happy hour will start at 5 p.m. and feature food and drink specials, as well as DJ Paul Devro playing for the fans. The Pep Rally will feature U.S. MNT head coach Jurgen Klinsmann and select members of the team who will be on hand to interact with supporters. The event will also include appearances by World Cup veterans and former Columbus Crew standouts Frankie Hejduk and Brian McBride.